A father's DNA is simply called paternal DNA. This DNA, like all DNA, is composed of deoxyribonucleic acid and contains genetic information passed down from the father. Specific aspects of paternal DNA can be referred to differently depending on the context.
Types of Paternal Genetic Information
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Y-chromosome DNA: The Y chromosome is passed almost exclusively from father to son. It's a valuable tool in tracing paternal lineages and is sometimes referred to as paternal lineage DNA or Y-DNA. What's on the Y Chromosome Handed Down From Father to Son discusses the inheritance of this chromosome.
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Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA): While predominantly inherited from the mother, paternal mtDNA transmission is a rare occurrence where mtDNA is passed from the father to his offspring. [In genetics, paternal mtDNA transmission and paternal mtDNA inheritance refer to the incidence of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) being passed from a father to his offspring.] This is less common than Y-chromosome inheritance.
Paternity Testing and Father's DNA
Paternity testing, frequently referred to as DNA testing or genetic testing, is used to determine biological fatherhood. Paternity – Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration describes paternity establishment, which legally identifies a biological father. These tests analyze the DNA of the child and alleged father to establish a probability of parentage. Paternity, Child Support, and You explains the importance of paternity testing for legal and familial reasons.
Legal Implications
Establishing legal paternity, often using DNA testing results, is crucial for legal purposes including child support, inheritance, and the child's birth certificate. Paternity Establishment | Job and Family Services highlights the importance of legally establishing paternity.
